| From 85 to 90, Baramulla’s elderly prove learning has no age limit | | | Early Times Report
Jammu, Oct 29: Proving that age is no barrier to education, elderly residents of Baramulla district in Jammu and Kashmir have emerged as inspiring examples of lifelong learning, with some learners aged between 85 and 90 years stepping forward to take a literacy assessment test.
More than 8,300 adult learners participated in the Foundation Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), conducted across 509 centres in the district under the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. The initiative aims to promote literacy among adults aged 18 years and above who have missed the opportunity to receive formal education.
The participation of elderly persons, particularly those in their late eighties and around 90 years of age, was among the most heartwarming aspects of the assessment exercise.
Braving all odds, these elderly persons appeared to be committed to learning basic reading, writing, and numeracy skills which they could not learn during their younger age due to unavoidable circumstances.
Their determination to acquire basic reading, writing and numeracy skills demonstrated that the desire to learn can transcend age, circumstances and the barriers that may have prevented people from accessing education earlier in life.
According to the official spokesperson of the government, Baramulla witnessed an inspiring celebration of lifelong learning on Sunday as participation in the Foundation Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), under the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, surpassed the target of 8,300 learners across 509 designated centres.
The assessment brought together adult learners aged 18 and above, with enthusiastic participation reflecting strong community mobilisation and a shared commitment to achieving universal adult literacy.
The presence of elderly learners aged 85–90 emerged as a highlight, demonstrating that the pursuit of education has no age limit. At several centres, the assessment took on a festive atmosphere, with learners arriving alongside their children and grandchildren. Refreshments and learner kits at some centres further added to the welcoming environment.
With an adult literacy rate of 98.63 percent, Baramulla is now striving to cross the 99 percent mark. The latest assessment is expected to contribute to this progress, subject to verification of results.
The initiative highlighted how community participation can transform literacy efforts into a movement of empowerment, dignity and inclusion. |
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